Emergency Response

Our enduring commitment to tikkun olam (repairing the world) and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness) implores us to swiftly meet the needs of those in crisis, wherever they may be. Learn how together, we are transforming – and saving – lives around the world.

When Hurricane Harvey devastated the Houston Jewish community, Federations across North America sprang into action. See the extent of the destruction and the beginning of rebuilding in this inspiring video.

$500,000+

is addressing the needs of natural disaster victims, including those recovering in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey

Hurricane Harvey — one of the most devastating hurricanes on record in U.S. history — delivered its worst blows to Houston’s Jewish community. Nearly three-quarters of the city’s Jewish population live in areas that received extensive flooding, and nearly every Jewish-owned business and institution has felt the impact in some way. For many, this is the third time in as many years that they have had to rebuild after a hurricane.

Federation immediately set up the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund to help meet urgent needs such as food, medicine, cleaning supplies, and trauma counseling, and to enable rebuilding. Our network of local and international partners means we can respond quickly and effectively to this emergency — but the work is not done. Experts say that full recovery could take many years.

150

families with homes rendered unlivable by wildfires in Israel received financial support to get back on their feet.

60

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington strives to create a vibrant and purposeful Jewish community through caring for those in need, deepening engagement in Jewish life and strengthening the bonds among Jews in the Washington area, in Israel and around the world.